Grape Leaf Express, Toledo

Large, hungry groups don’t intimidate the chefs at The Grape Leaf Express. In true family-style tradition, these culinary heavyweights can whip up massive plates, called Party Pleasers, to satisfy up to seven visitors per serving with housemade hummus, tabbouleh, grape leaves, falafel, kebabs, or shawarma. Whether furnishing a banquet or a simple meal for two, the chefs carefully prepare Lebanese staples in addition to other Mediterranean dishes, such as pita sandwiches and lamb chops.

The restaurant's Liquid Health Bar menu upholds the same commitment to freshness with blended fruit smoothies, several of which derive a sweet kick from a smattering of honey. After guests finish their meals, they can order a dessert of baklava or housemade cheesecake and recline on a scarlet-cushioned booth to let their eyes wander across a luminous purple aquarium, decorative bamboo shoots, and scenes of Greek monuments.